Portable pools just as dangerous as any other pool

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Does the hot weather have you setting up a portable pool in your yard? They're affordable and transportable, but can be just as dangerous as any other pool.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has received an average of 35 reports of deaths of children under the age of 5 in portable pools each year. These pools account for 11 percent of all pool drownings for children that age. These deaths can be prevented.

Here are some general safety tips:

Fence portable pools and encourage your neighbors to do the same.

If you can’t fence the pool, use smaller, easier-to-store portable pools. Then, empty the water any time you are not supervising the pool and turn it upside down or store it away.

Never leave a child unsupervised near any pool or spa.

Cover larger pools and put ladders away when adults are not supervising or using the pool. When you buy a pool cover, make sure it meets the latest standards.

Install door alarms that will alert you when someone leaves the house and enters the pool or spa area.

Teach children to swim, float and other life-saving basics. But do not consider young children “drown-proof” because they have had swimming lessons.